Use of a collagen-elastin matrix with split-thickness skin graft for defect coverage in complex wounds.

OBJECTIVE: Severe soft tissue damage with destruction of the dermis requires plastic reconstructive treatment. For multimorbid patients or patients unable to undergo major reconstructive surgery, use of dermal substitutes, such as a collagen-elastin matrix (CEM) with a split-thickness skin graft (STSG), instead of local or free flap surgery, may be a valid and easy treatment option. We aimed to investigate and compare the outcomes and rate of successful defect reconstruction using CEM plus STSG, using either a one-step approach (simultaneous CEM and STSG) or a two-step approach (CEM and negative wound pressure therapy (NPWT), with secondary STSG transplantation). METHOD: A single-centre, retrospective follow-up study of patients who had received CEM was conducted. Wounds had been treated with an STSG transplantation covering a CEM (MatriDerm, MedSkin Solutions Dr. Suwelack AG, Germany). Previous attempts at wound closure with conventional methods had failed in the selected patient population, which would usually have resulted in flap surgery. RESULTS: Overall, 46 patients were included (mean age 60.9±20.0 years), with a total of 49 wound sites. We analysed 38 patients with wounds that did not require flap coverage; 18 patients received the one-step approach and 20 patients received the two-step approach. The mean follow-up in these patients was 22±11.5 months, and one patient was lost to follow-up. Overall, 29 (78.4%) wounds remained closed. Wounds which did not successfully heal were related to comorbidities, such as diabetes, alcohol misuse and smoking. Using the one-step approach, long-term defect coverage was achieved in 13 (76.5%) wounds and 16 (80.0%) wounds were closed using the two-step approach. However, there was no statistically significant differences between the one- or two-step approaches regarding the rate of development of a wound healing disorder. CONCLUSION: Wound closure was achieved in 38 complex wounds using CEM plus STSG, while 11 wounds needed secondary flap coverage. In the flap-free wounds, there were no statistically significant differences between the one-step versus two-step approach. Using a simple defect reconstruction algorithm, we successfully used CEM plus STSG to treat complex wounds.

Effectiveness of soft tissue augmentation procedures for coverage of buccal soft tissue dehiscence around dental implants: A systematic review.

OBJECTIVE: This systematic review evaluated the effectiveness of soft tissue augmentation procedures for complete coverage and mean coverage of buccal soft tissue dehiscence (BSTD) in patients with implant-supported restorations. METHODS: Three databases were surveyed for randomized (RCTs), non-randomized controlled clinical trials (CCTs), cohort studies, case-control studies, and case series with a minimum of five patients per control or test group. Studies dealing with soft tissue augmentation procedures to cover BSTD-occurring during implant function and not due to the result of peri-implantitis-were included. Risk of bias was evaluated with RoB 2 or the National Institutes of Health's Quality Assessment. Whenever possible, exploratory meta-analyses were performed to evaluate weighted mean effects (WME) for the different outcomes. The primary outcomes were the percentage of complete coverage and mean coverage of BSTD. RESULTS: Seven articles were included. Only one study was a RCT, with a high risk of bias. Meta-analyses showed that after 1 year (2 studies, n = 36 patients; WME = 70; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 50; 90; p = .23) as well as after 5 years (3 studies, n = 54 patients; WME = 70; 95%; CI = 60; 80; p = .44), complete coverage of BSTD could be achieved in 70% of the cases. CONCLUSION: Based on limited evidence, it can be concluded that BSTD can be substantially reduced with the use of soft tissue augmentation procedures. Further research with comparative trials using larger samples and longer follow-up periods is needed to study the stability of soft tissues in the long term.

Reverse Neurocutaneous Flap Based on the Dorsal Branch of the Ulnar Artery for Palm Coverage in Children: Long-Term Results.

PURPOSE: Although the palm is spared mostly in severe burn injuries, it often is affected in children and requires radical excision of contracting scar tissue to allow normal hand development. Since alternatives are limited for palmar coverage, we primarily use a reverse-perfused, neurocutaneous dorsal ulnar artery flap. We report here our long-term follow-up results. METHODS: We reviewed the long-term results of 10 postburn palmar contracture release and flap coverage procedures in 10 children. The applied flap was based distally on the dorsal branch of the ulnar artery and harvested along the ulnar aspect of the hand and wrist. The pivot point of the flap was located dorsally, close to the 4th and 5th metacarpal base. Patients were followed for a median period of 6 years (range, 4-20 years). RESULTS: Flap size ranged from 60-130 mm in length and 20-35 mm in width. This variation in flap dimensions resulted from different hand sizes, because of the various patient ages at surgery. All flaps survived, donor site healing was uneventful, and marginal flap necrosis occurred only once. Satisfactory restoration of range of motion without secondary contractures was observed. Moreover, we detected adequate progressive growth, adaptability and sensory recovery in all flaps. Over time, the flaps mostly become hairless and progressively flattened without debulking. CONCLUSIONS: The importance of this flap lies in the potential for considerable tissue mobilization to cover palmar defects without sacrificing any major vascular axis. The adequate progressive growth of the flap facilitates functional hand development in children. The predictable vascular anatomy, wide range, and durable, thin, and pliable skin make the reverse neurocutaneous dorsal ulnar artery flap an appealing option for soft tissue reconstruction of the palm in children. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic V.

Aesthetic functional reconstruction of the mutilated hand: Indications and selection of reconstructive techniques.

Advances in microsurgery together with improvements in reconstructive surgical techniques over recent decades have enlarged the scope of available techniques for mutilated hand reconstruction, shifting the reconstructive paradigm from restoring hand function to providing the best functional and aesthetic results with minimal donor-site morbidity. Successful reconstruction of a mutilated hand should no longer be measured only by the degree of improvement of hand function but also by a more aesthetic hand appearance as well as by improved psychological well-being. In this article, the authors present their concept of aesthetic functional reconstruction of the mutilated hand with a focus on the indications and selection of reconstructive techniques. They emphasize that in order to select the most appropriate technique, providing the best functional and aesthetic outcomes with minimal donor-site morbidity for each individual patient, it is imperative for the reconstructive hand surgeon to possess perfect mastery of all available surgical techniques, thorough understanding of functional and aesthetic requirements and accurate appreciation of multidimensional reconstruction of a given defect of the hand. They have concluded that in precisely indicated cases, successful replantation of an amputated hand or digits remains the best reconstructive procedure designed to obtain a more functional and more normal-appearing hand, whereas, toe-to-hand transplantation, in cases of failed or impossible digit replantation, provides better results than any other digit reconstruction techniques aimed at achieving functioning digits with good appearance. Although skin graft and various distant pedicled flaps and free flaps may be valid options for coverage of some soft tissue defects of the hand, reverse flow forearm flaps, especially those based on the secondary arteries of the forearm, are often the best-suited reconstructive options for like-with-like hand reconstruction. They can provide the best matching of color, texture, soft-tissue volume, donor-recipient tissue interface and fulfill all the aesthetic and functional reconstruction requirements of moderate-sized or even large soft tissue defects of the hand, with acceptable donor site morbidity.

Coverage of cutaneous substance loss in the leg: Techniques and indications.

Cutaneous substance loss in the leg is frequent; more often than not, it is trauma-related. It calls for complex management and necessitates the application of all current reconstruction techniques, particularly microsurgery. As regards treatment, the available therapeutic arsenal is highly diversified, ranging from a simple free flap skin graft to local and locoregional flaps. During reconstruction, the surgeon is subjected to several constraints insofar as the objectives of the operation are esthetic as well as functional. Ideally, the fineness of the skin covering the anterior side of the leg will have been scrupulously respected. Reconstruction is aimed at producing a stable and reliable cutaneous envelope while limiting the morbidity of the donor site. The development of free perforator flaps corresponds to these two criteria by producing a fine flap adapted to the cutaneous thickness of the leg and limiting any functional and esthetic sequelae at the donor site.

A Review on the Orthoplastic Approach to Lower Limb Reconstruction.

Just as in the craft of carpentry, a stable foundation and framework are absolutely essential to the final function of a building, but no more important than the drywall, trim, and paint that make the building functional, durable, and livable. Reconstruction of the lower extremity is similar; the orthopaedic surgeon must obtain stable fixation of the damaged or diseased bone once a thorough debridement of nonviable bone is performed, while the plastic or orthopaedic soft tissue surgeon must provide vascularized, stable coverage. These two components are complementary and both contribute to the success or failure of functional limb restoration. The stability of bone repair will predict the ultimate functional status, while the vascularized envelope will enhance the biology of bone and soft tissue healing. When both components are properly attended to, the result is often a functional limb with an acceptable appearance. While a single surgeon need not perform both of these tasks (although some may choose to do so), the orthopaedic and plastic surgeon involved in this care must have a clear understanding of each other's role and their importance for a good outcome. This is what we call the orthoplastic approach to reconstructive surgery of the extremities, that is, the application of principles and practice of both specialties applied simultaneously to optimize the outcomes in limb reconstruction. In this review article, we discuss the history of orthoplastic surgery, the key elements of orthoplastic surgery, and thoughts on factors that lead to good outcomes through select cases.

[Free fasciocutaneous parascapular flap. Coverage of extensive skin and soft tissue defects]. / Freie fasziokutane Paraskapularlappenplastik. Deckung ausgedehnter Haut-Weichteil-Defekte.

Coverage of extensive tissue defects is one of the tasks of plastic surgery. For the surgeon there are a series of possibilities differing in safety level and difficulty. With extensively exposed bones, however, there is mostly the indication for free tissue transfer. In the following case a possibility of wound closure of an extensive defect by one single free flap without preconditioning the tissue is demonstrated.

Anatomic study of the flexor carpi ulnaris muscle and its application to soft tissue coverage of the elbow with clinical correlation.

BACKGROUND: The posterior elbow is prone to soft tissue loss that may require reconstructive methods for wound healing to be achieved. The flexor carpi ulnaris (FCU) muscle has been described for coverage in case reports and small series. Previous studies give conflicting anatomic findings about the dominant vascular pedicle for the FCU. METHODS: Twenty-five cadaveric specimens were dissected. Pedicle location, number, and distance from the medial epicondyle were recorded along with the extent of posterior elbow coverage. Chart review was conducted during a 4-year period. Eight patients who underwent FCU rotational flap coverage were identified. Those flaps relied entirely on a single proximal pedicle. RESULTS: The vascular pedicles from the ulnar artery or recurrent ulnar artery were identified in 24 of 25 specimens. The average distance from the tip of the medial epicondyle to the first pedicle was 5.7 cm (range, 3 to 10 cm). The length of muscle coverage proximal to the olecranon tip averaged 9.3 cm. The clinical follow-up of 7 patients requiring FCU rotational flaps for coverage of the posterior elbow showed that all flaps survived and provided adequate coverage for the defect. CONCLUSIONS: The FCU rotational pedicle flap provides predictable coverage of small to medium-sized defects about the posterior elbow. Although it is relatively consistent, the proximal vascular pedicle does demonstrate some variability, which should be considered in planning surgery. The consistent distal extent of the FCU muscle belly provides wider proximal coverage of defects.

Open fractures: evidence-based best practices.

Open fracture management is a common challenge to orthopaedic trauma surgeons and a burdensome condition to the patient, health care, and entire society. Fracture-related infection (FRI) is the leading morbid complication to avoid during open fracture management because it leads to sepsis, nonunion, limb loss, and overall very poor region-specific and general functional outcomes. This review, based on a symposium presented at the 2022 OTA International Trauma Care Forum, provides a practical and evidence-based summary on key strategies to prevent FRI in open fractures, which can be grouped as optimizing host factors, antimicrobial prophylaxis, surgical site management (skin preparation, debridement, and wound irrigation), provision of skeletal stability, and soft-tissue coverage. When it is applicable, strategies are differentiated between optimal resource and resource-limited settings.

Porcine-derived Acellular Dermal Matrix for Temporary Soft Tissue Coverage in Locally Advanced Angiosarcoma of the Face - A Soft Tissue Odyssey?

BACKGROUND/AIM: Angiosarcomas of the face are rare but present significant treatment challenges due to their origin in the supportive tissues of blood or lymphatic vessels. Achieving optimal balance between oncological efficacy and aesthetic outcomes requires a multidisciplinary approach, particularly in cases where radical R0 resection is necessary. Delays often occur, especially during histopathological examinations, which can complicate primary plastic reconstruction before definitive pathological findings. CASE REPORT: To address this issue, we present a case with the use of porcine-derived acellular dermal matrix for temporary soft tissue coverage as a viable option in a case of angiosarcoma of the face. This is particularly useful in situations where frozen sections risk the loss of critical anatomical structures and intraoperative diagnosis is not feasible. This approach allowed for satisfactory wound coverage and granulation during diagnostic phases, paving the way for oncologically manageable situations and functional rehabilitation. CONCLUSION: Temporary soft tissue coverage with porcine-derived acellular dermal matrix is a valuable option in tumor surgery of rare and complex situations.

Thin Profunda Artery Perforator Flap for Hand and Upper Extremity Coverage.

The profunda artery perforator (PAP) flap provides a good option for hand and upper extremity reconstruction. The reliable quality, caliber, and number of perforators in the posteromedial thigh support large flaps with long pedicles. The PAP flap has been widely used for breast reconstruction, although its use in the extremities has been slower to catch on due to the bulk and thickness of the subcutaneous tissue. The authors discuss evolution of thin flaps and our application of the thin and superthin PAP flap for upper extremity reconstruction.

Distally based Chinese forearm flap in preventing impending necrosis from ring entrapment: Surgical case report.

INTRODUCTION: Ring entrapment is a medical condition that can lead to severe consequences, including nerve damage, ischemia, and impending necrosis. The condition often necessitates surgical intervention to prevent complications such as amputation. CASE PRESENTATION: We report a case of a 49-year-old male with impending necrosis of the right little finger due to steel ring entrapment. The patient presented with severe edema, signs of infection, and undetected finger saturation on pulse oximetry. DISCUSSION: The Distally Based Chinese Forearm Flap (CFA) was used for soft tissue coverage, which has advantages like reliable vascularization and long pedicle rotation. The CFA flap has shown to be effective in restoring perfusion to the distal tissue and facilitating early wound closure. CONCLUSION: The use of CFA in this case resulted in a viable flap and good finger function, demonstrating its effectiveness in managing impending necrosis due to ring entrapment.

Complex Functional Posttraumatic Shoulder Reconstruction Using Shoulder Arthroplasty and a Pedicled Innervated Latissimus Dorsi Flap-A Case Report and Literature Review.

BACKGROUND: The shoulder joint is one of the most freely movable joints in the human body and has therefore high importance for upper limb functionality. Several techniques have been developed to replace the glenohumeral joint including humeral hemiarthroplasty, anatomical total shoulder arthroplasty, and reverse total shoulder arthroplasty, depending on the underlying pathology. For the soft tissue reconstruction, the innervated latissimus dorsi musculocutaneous flap is a reliable solution flap in shoulder and arm reconstruction. CASE PRESENTATION: We present the case of a 16-year-old male patient with a complete destruction of the shoulder joint and soft tissues after ballistic trauma. We performed the reconstruction of the shoulder joint using a humeral hemiarthroplasty with a mesh fixation to the remaining glenoid. The soft tissue coverage and the restoration of the deltoid muscle function were insured with a pedicled innervated latissimus dorsi musculocutaneous flap. One year postoperatively, the patient showed a good function of the shoulder joint with an excellent aesthetical result and no pain. CONCLUSION: The pedicled latissimus dorsi musculocutaneous flap can safely restore the shoulder function, while the humeral hemiarthroplasty with mesh fixation can be a reliable solution for the reconstruction of a completely destructed shoulder joint.

Implementing an orthoplastic treatment protocol for open tibia fractures reduces complication rates in tertiary trauma unit.

INTRODUCTION: Open tibia fracture (OTF) causes a considerable increase in morbidity and risk for complications compared to closed fractures. The most significant OTF complication leading to morbidity is commonly considered to be fracture-related infection (FRI). In September 2016, Tampere University Hospital (TAUH) introduced a treatment protocol for OTFs based on the BOAST 4 guideline. The aim of this study is to investigate the outcomes before and after implementation of the OTF treatment protocol. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective cohort study was conducted using handpicked data from the patient record databases of TAUH from May 1, 2007, to May 10, 2021. For patients with OTF, we collected descriptive information, known risk factors for FRI and nonunion, bony fixation method, possible soft tissue reconstruction method, information about the timing of internal fixation and soft tissue coverage, and timing of primary operation. As outcome measures, we collected information on FRI, reoperation due to non-union, flap failure, and secondary amputation. We then compared the incidence of complications before and after the implementation of the OTF treatment protocol at TAUH. RESULTS: After predefined exclusions, a total of 203 patients with OTF were included. Of these, 141 were treated before and 62 after the implementation of the OTF treatment protocol. The FRI rate in the pre-protocol group was significantly higher compared to the protocol group (20.6% vs 1.6%, p = 0.0015). The incidence of reoperation due to nonunion was also significantly higher in the pre-protocol group (27.7% vs 9.7%, p = 0.0054). According to multivariable analysis, definitive fixation and soft tissue coverage performed in separate operations was an independent risk factor for both FRI and reoperation due to nonunion. CONCLUSIONS: After implementation, the BOAST 4 based OTF treatment protocol reduced the rate of FRI and reoperation due to nonunion in patients with OTF treated at TAUH during the study period. We, therefore, recommend the implementation of such a treatment protocol in all major trauma centers treating patients with OTF. Furthermore, we also recommend the immediate referral of patients with complex OTF from hospitals lacking the preconditions to provide BOAST 4 based treatment to specialized centers.

Perforator flap: A novel method for providing skin cover to lower limb defects.

BACKGROUND: Soft tissue defects in the lower limb pose a formidable challenge due to lack of reliable local flap options. Due to thin non-expendable soft tissues and predisposition to massive edema formation, even small defects become problematic. Perforator flaps represent the latest trends in soft tissue coverage. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of perforator flaps as coverage of soft tissue defects in lower limbs. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A series of patients with soft tissue defects of various etiologies in the lower limb were treated using perforator flap at a tertiary care service hospital. Six were free flaps and fourteen pedicled flaps. Doppler ultrasound was used to identify recipient and donor vessels pre-operatively. RESULTS: Only one flap was lost due to venous congestion. In another case of carcinoma penis there was delayed healing due to persistent lymphorrhoea as a result of post-operative status following lymph node dissection and radiotherapy. Fifteen donor sites required split skin grafting, as they could not be closed directly. CONCLUSION: Perforator flaps are a reliable option for closure of soft tissue defects of lower limb irrespective of size, location and depth. There is minimal donor site morbidity. It has the advantage of rapid dissection, flap elevation and reliable skin territory. As no special equipment is required it can be replicated in smaller centers also.

Open tibial shaft fracture management in Argentina: an evaluation of treatment standards in diverse resource settings.

Background: Argentina is a country with varying access to orthopedic surgical care. The Argentine Association of Trauma and Orthopedics (AATO) "Interior Committee" was developed to address potential regional differences and promote standardization of orthopedic trauma care. The paper assesses the level of national standardization of the management of open tibia fractures across 9 provinces in Argentina. Methods: Utilizing a matched-comparison group design, management of these injuries were assessed and compared between 3 groups: an "AATO Exterior Committee" consisting of surgeons that practice in Buenos Aires, and 2 "Interior Committees," comprising surgeons that practice in outlying provinces, 1 of which is affiliated with the AATO, and 1 that is not affiliated with the AATO. The study was conducted in 2 phases: phase 1 assessed open tibia fracture management characteristics, and phase 2 evaluated the management of soft-tissue wound coverage following open fractures. Results: Soft-tissue coverage procedures for Gustilo Anderson Type IIIB fractures were more commonly performed by orthopedic surgeons in Interior Committees than the AATO Exterior Committee. Greater rates of definitive wound coverage within 7 days post-injury were reported in both Interior Committees compared to the Exterior Committee. Plastic surgeons were reported as more available to those in the AATO Exterior Committee group than in the AATO Interior Committees. Conclusion: While treatment patterns were evident among groups, differences were identified in the management and timing of soft-tissue coverage in Gustilo Anderson Type IIIB fractures between the Exterior Committee and both Interior Committees. Future targeted educational and surgical hands-on training opportunities that emphasize challenges faced in resource-limited settings may improve the management of open tibia fractures in Argentina.

Ancient but Efficient: Two Case Reports of Pedicle-Tubed Groin Flap for Soft Tissue Coverage in Upper Limb Defects.

The distant tubed pedicle skin flap concept was introduced almost 100 years ago. It was previously considered the workhorse flap to reconstruct the face and upper limbs. Despite being considered an ancient reconstruction method, it is still widely used by many reconstructive surgeons. It is considered a versatile flap with a good outcome. This article presents two cases of soft tissue injuries in the upper limbs reconstructed using distant tubed pedicled groin flaps, one of the types of tubed pedicle flaps. This article highlights the relevance of the tubed distant pedicle flap in reconstructing the upper limb defects and its effectiveness in restoring function, even though the cosmetic outcome is not favorable.

Correlation of Time to Soft Tissue Coverage With Clinical Outcome in Lower Extremity Trauma in the Modern Era: A Single-Center Retrospective Review.

Background: Lower extremity salvage in the setting of severe trauma requires the consideration of multiple surgical specialties and treatment algorithms. We hypothesized that time to first ambulation, ambulation without an assistive device, chronic osteomyelitis, and delayed amputation were not affected by the time to soft tissue coverage in Gustilo IIIB and IIIC fractures at our institution. Methods: We evaluated all patients treated for open tibia fractures at our institution from 2007 to 2017. Patients requiring any form of soft tissue coverage to the lower extremity during their initial hospitalization and who had at least 30 days of follow-up from time of hospital discharge were included. Univariable and multivariable analysis was performed for all variables and outcomes of interest. Results: Of 575 patients included, 89 required soft tissue coverage. On multivariable analysis, the time to soft tissue coverage, length of negative pressure wound therapy treatment, and number of wound washouts were not found to be associated with development of chronic osteomyelitis, decreased 90-day return to any ambulation, decreased 180-day return to ambulation without assistive device, or delayed amputation. Conclusions: Time to soft tissue coverage in open tibia fractures did not affect time to first ambulation, ambulation without an assistive device, chronic osteomyelitis, or delayed amputation in this cohort. It remains difficult to definitively prove that time to soft tissue coverage meaningfully impacts lower extremity outcomes.

Soft Tissue Expansion in Total Knee Arthroplasty Due to Extensive Scarring and Fibrosis in Multiple-Operated Knee.

Background: Inadequate wound closure is a feared complication following total knee arthroplasty (TKA). A knee with a multiple operative history, excessive scarring, and fibrosed surrounding soft tissue presents a significant challenge. In cases with preoperative uncertainty for sufficient soft tissue coverage because of ischemia and tension on closure, soft tissue expansion (STE) has been reported to be an effective tool for optimizing successful closure. Case Report: For the case in this report, STE was performed on a knee with multiple scars, potential ischemia, fibrosis, and soft tissue contractures prior to TKA. Conclusions: In cases of uncertain soft tissue coverage in TKA, the use of STE can be a useful method in creating adequate wound closure.

Bipedicle strap flaps for reconstruction of longitudinal dorsal finger defects: a review of 42 cases.

We report our experience with 42 bipedicle strap flaps in 42 fingers of 37 patients for the reconstruction of long longitudinal dorsal finger defects. Twelve cases were compound lesions with tendon lacerations. All flaps healed without infection, congestion or necrosis. At follow-up, mean total active interphalangeal joint mobility was 150° and 108° in patients without and with tendon lacerations, respectively. The median scores of the short version of the Disability of Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire were 5 and 7, respectively. Patients were able to return to work or to their daily activities after a mean of 6 weeks. The patients were satisfied with the appearance in 34 of the 42 flaps. We conclude that the flap is a useful option for reconstructing dorsal digital lesions. It has a texture similar to the normal dorsal digital skin, and it is easy to perform without needing microsurgery.Level of evidence: IV.